The Voorjaarsnota negotiations continued deep into the night, with fatigue, hunger, and time pressure playing a major role. Lack of sleep and time pressure can significantly affect the ability to negotiate effectively and empathetically—something that is detrimental to achieving good outcomes.

Tim Masselink emphasized in an article for NRC that negotiations should never come down to the last minute.

Maarten van Rossum also made this point clearly on Eva last night: such conditions should be avoided. However, if unavoidable, they should be strategically used to your advantage.

Both Tim and Maarten highlighted the importance of "negotiation fitness"—a term used by former Prime Minister Mark Rutte—where strategic choices, such as taking breaks, are crucial for maintaining focus and sharpness.

Curious about the entire broadcast? Click here:  https://eva.avrotros.nl/artikel/de-uitzending-van-16-april-626 

Curious about the article in the NRC? Read it here: https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2025/04/16/juist-in-de-nachtelijke-uren-kan-het-spoken-in-politiek-den-haag-a4890170